RLC Packet Encapsulation for Multi-Standard Network Convergence

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current multi-standard network convergence solutions, such as LTE-WiFi CA, lack implementation details and fail to accurately place RLC packets into transmission queues, hindering effective data offloading between cellular and WLAN networks.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for multi-standard network convergence that involves acquiring RLC packets and encapsulating them with access category mapping parameters, such as DSCP or QCI, to form encapsulated packets, which are then forwarded to a second network for accurate placement into transmission queues based on the acquired AC parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If LTE-WiFi CA solution is implemented with unchanged core network and 802.11 air interface, then multi-standard network convergence architecture is established, but specific implementation details are missing and RLC packets cannot be accurately placed into transmission queues

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-standard network convergenceVSAvoidimplementation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mapping mechanism between LTE QCI (QoS Class Identifier) and WiFi AC (Access Category). This intermediary layer translates QCI values from the LTE network into corresponding AC values for the WiFi network, enabling accurate packet placement without requiring complex end-to-end integration. The mapping table acts as a mediator that simplifies the convergence implementation while maintaining QoS requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the multi-standard network convergence problem into distinct layers: the LTE network layer (with RLC packets and QCI), the mapping layer (with QCI-AC correspondence), and the WiFi network layer (with transmission queues and AC). By segmenting the problem, each layer can be independently configured and managed, reducing overall implementation complexity while achieving effective convergence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If data offloading is performed at RLC layer using existing technology, then data transmission between LTE and WiFi is enabled, but transmission queue placement information is lost and convergence cannot be implemented effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata offloading capabilityVSAvoidtransmission queue information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary mapping of QCI to AC values before data offloading occurs. By pre-establishing the correspondence between LTE QoS parameters and WiFi access categories, the system ensures that when RLC packets are offloaded to the WiFi network, they already carry the necessary AC mapping information for correct transmission queue placement. This preliminary action prevents information loss during the offloading process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2941043B1Method, device, and system for multi-standard network convergence
Publication Date: 2018.05.23 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP2941043B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2941043B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2941043B1 patent drawingFigure 4(a)~5

AI summary

The present invention discloses a multi-standard network convergence method, device, and system and relates to the field of communications technologies. The method includes: acquiring an AC mapping parameter corresponding to an RLC packet; performing encapsulation on the AC mapping parameter and the RLC packet; and forwarding an encapsulated packet to a second network, so that the second network acquires a corresponding AC according to the AC mapping parameter in the encapsulated packet, and places the RLC packet into a transmission queue corresponding to the AC for transmission. According to the present invention, an AC mapping parameter and an RLC packet are encapsulated and then sent to a second network, so that the second network may determine a corresponding AC according to the AC mapping parameter, so as to accurately place the RLC packet into a corresponding transmission queue for transmission and further implement multi-standard network convergence.